A Guide to SecuraCam Containers

Container security has always been an important topic in the world of logistics and has been addressed through various standardizations, such as the ISO 1496-1. A shipping container has various seal positions, whereby some are standard and other positions are used for added security.  

SecuraCam containers are shipping containers that are built after the ISO 1496-1 guideline and feature an additional sealing position/device that is located at the bottom of the container. This additional seal is used to prevent cargo theft, pilferage and other illegal activities. 

There are various situations and reasons why SecuraCam containers are used, which we will explore in this article. We’ll also show you how to find the SecuraCam seal positions on containers. 

Where Are The SecuraCam Seal Positions Found?

In accordance with the ISO 1496-1 (Amendment 5) guideline, the additional sealing location (also referred to as SecuraCam) is located at the bottom of the left locking bar, on the right container door. You’ll be able to see this in the blue box in the images below.

Once the empty container has been stuffed, the container is sealed at the standard sealing positions. If additional security is required, another container seal should be locked at the bottom of the shipping container in the SecuraCam position. 

Where to Get SecuraCam Containers?

Containers that were constructed after 2004 must comply with the latest ISO guidelines and are manufactured with an additional sealing location at the bottom of the container. 

When placing a booking with a shipping line or carrier they will typically release an empty container to the nominated trucker of the cargo owner. If a SecuraCam container is requested, the carrier will release a container as per the ISO 1496-1 guidelines, with an additional bolt seal for the SecuraCam sealing position. 

Therefore, it’s important to note that if a SecuraCam container is needed, the carrier with whom the shipment is booked, needs to be notified at the time the booking is placed. 

What Kind of Seals Are Used For SecuraCam Containers?

High security seals, such as bolt seals are most commonly used. However, wire seals can also be found on SecuraCam sealing locations. The type of seal that is being used depends on the requirements of the cargo owner, shipping line and local regulations. 

When to Use SecuraCam Containers

Container must be sealed using a high-security seal in the standard location. SecuraCam sealing is typically requested for high-value cargo, special cargo, or when exporting and importing to and from various high-risk areas. 

• High-Value Cargo – A SecuraCam seal is often used if the cargo has a high value such as machinery, electronics, vehicles, antiques and similar products. 

• Protected or Special Cargo – Cargo such as prototypes, products are still under development, special edition products, products of sentimental value are often sealed with an additional high-security seal. 

• Importing or Exporting to High-Risk Areas – Cargo that is exported from or imported to high-risk areas that are prone to piracy or theft. These areas are typically Africa, Southeast Asia among various others.

SecuraCam containers with additional high-security seals give cargo owners added security at a low cost. As most containers are specified to the ISO 1496-1 guideline, an additional seal is all that is required. 

What Type of Companies Request for SecuraCam Containers?

SecuraCam containers are typically used by companies who ship valuable cargo internationally from locations that are prone to security breaches. These could be luxury brands, apparel companies or even automobile, wine and high-end furniture companies.

Is a SecuraCam Seal Mandatory?

Securing containers with an additional SecurCam seal is not mandatory. It’s an optional layer of protection that shippers and consignees may want to take to mitigate risk. Containers need to have at least one container seal at the standard position. All other seals are optional.

Do Carriers Charge an Additional SecuraCam?Fee?

Carriers typically release empty containers that are compliant with ISO 1496-1 guidelines and therefore don’t charge for a ‘special’ SecuraCam container. However, a shipping line will usually charge for the additional seal that is required to secure the container.

An additional seal is charged at about $5 – $10 depending on the shipping line. This is in line with their standard container seal fee. When using your own bolt or wire seal at the SecuraCam position, the shipping line will not charge an additional fee. However, it’s best to inform the carrier when that is the case.